The regular scheduled meeting of Swainsboro City Council was held Monday night, November 3, with Bro. Brad McKenzie bringing the prayer of invocation, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance.
Minutes from the October 6 meeting were approved 6-0.
In old business, Council approved the 2025 budget as presented. The mileage rate was also approved at 10 mils.
The amended alcohol ordinance for the Karrh Theatre was approved 5-0 with Councilperson Bobbie Collins voting against the ordinance.
The agenda was amended to discuss the Airport Grant. The city received a $1.5 million grant several months ago for renovations at the airport, with the city committing to spend an additional $500,000. Since receiving the grant, the airport has been turned over to the Airport Authority. Jerry Cadle, representing the Airport Authority, requested Council to move forward with the grant, with the Airport Authority being responsible for the $500,000. After much discussion, Council voted to move forward with the grant as presented by Cadle.
Next, Ronald Moore requested street closure for the Downtown Getdown, scheduled for Saturday, January 3, 2026. Council will vote on the closure at the December meeting.
Julia Carswell addressed Council about the condition of roads in the city. She was told road paving would begin December 1.
Under new business, Council approved Allgreen to continue the trash service for the city. Council approved a 5-year contract. The current rate is $13 per household. This rate will be held through December 2026. In January 2027, there will be an increase of no more than 4% or CPI, whichever is lower.
Council also approved a motion to get with the Department of Transportation to talk about forming truck routes for the city. The current Mitchell Building owner, Rhett Blount, was at the City Workshop meeting Monday, October 27 to discuss how large trucks continue to hit the building and cause damage.
The landscape and maintenance contract and the city attorney contract for 2026 will be put out for bid with a 5-1 vote. Councilperson Johnny Ray Stafford voted against.
Council approved an amendment to the police department budget for an additional $125,000 to finish out this year.
The hiring of a full-time police officer was approved, along with the road closures for the Christmas Parade.
